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Queen's Drummer Reveals Freddie Mercury's Unknown Passion... For Scrabble

By Louise Ducrocq
08/11/2026
Est. Reading: 2 minutes

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Photo: Mercury Songs Ltd.

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Freddie Mercury was just as competitive over a game of Scrabble as he was on stage, according to Queen drummer Roger Taylor.

The musician has revealed that the late singer was a talented player and would regularly stay up all night taking part in lengthy games with his bandmates.

 

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Speaking in the latest edition of Classic Rock magazine, Roger recalled the "epic Scrabble battles" he shared with Freddie, Sir Brian May and John Deacon.


The games would often go on for hours, sometimes lasting until six o'clock in the morning.

 

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Roger admitted that he still enjoys playing the classic word game today, as it brings back fond memories of his time with Freddie.

"I've always liked a bit of Scrabble, but it's not about words, it's about points. Fred was very good at it," he said.

It seems the competitive spirit was never far away, even when the band weren't making music or performing in front of thousands of fans.

 

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Freddie, who died in 1991 aged 45 following complications from AIDS, was known for his extraordinary stage presence and musical talent.

However, stories like Roger's offer a glimpse into a more relaxed side of the legendary frontman and the friendships behind one of the world's most successful rock bands.

Queen went on to become one of the biggest bands in music history, with hits including Bohemian Rhapsody, Don't Stop Me Now, We Will Rock You and Somebody To Love.

Roger Taylor and Brian May continue to keep the band's music alive through Queen + Adam Lambert, performing to audiences around the world.

Louise Ducrocq

Written by Louise Ducrocq

Louise is an expert content creator, and online author for Radio Nova. She's evolved in a few different fields, including mental health and travel, and is now excited to be part of the wonderful word of Radio.

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